The Milk Hit the Floor, and the Tabby Became a Statue in the Puddle
A milky white puddle spreads across the tile, with splashes running to the edge of the wooden doorframe, and a brown tabby stands squarely in the middle of it. His front paws are wet, his chest fur is a little damp, and his eyes are turned to the side, scanning the doorway as if checking for witnesses. A kitchen towel and a pair of sneakers lie nearby, along with a potted plant by the wall, and the sun throws a warm patch of light across the scene.
Milk has a long reputation as a cat treat, but most adult cats are lactose intolerant, which means dairy can give them an upset stomach or diarrhea. Kittens drink their mother's milk, but after weaning, their bodies make less of the enzyme that digests it. A small lick will usually not hurt, but milk should not be a regular snack. If you want to give your cat something special, ask your vet about milk made for cats or a few tasty treats instead. Spills are also a good moment to dry the paws, because wet fur on a slippery floor can make anyone slide. Clean up the puddle quickly, wash the floor, and keep cartons and glasses away from the edge of counters.
The cat, meanwhile, remains dignified. He is tall, still, and absolutely not looking at the mess he is standing in.
